Wednesday, January 7, 2009

Making a Marriage Book - Documenting Your Romance

Mel Candea

Scrap-booking has become so popular these days as an ongoing project, something to share or for relaxation. But what about making a marriage book, a tool for communication between you and your partner, a place for memories? Whether you're a newly-wed or a 20-year relationship devotee,
a marriage book can be a positive force for you both. The nicest thing about it is that you tailor it to match you, your partnership, your lifestyle. So how do you begin?

Choose your theme, or your focus. Will it be for writing to each other, for special events like anniversaries, vacation memorabilia? A combination of all of these, as an ongoing physical representation of your time together?

Choose the book type you want, to match the theme. A Moleskin would be perfect for writing each other, with a continuation of replies. Or you could bind your own book, using hand-made paper and a few simple methods that you can find online. Opt for materials that are sturdy and durable- you'll want to keep it a long time.

Talk to your partner about it, what it should represent to you as a couple. Some people won't feel comfortable with writing or gluing constantly, so set some ground rules. Will it be used spontaneously, or some time you both set aside each week? Each month? If you have children, will you include them in the process?

Be creative. Some ideas for its use could be: both short notes or long letters, or it could be used for time-outs when there's a hitch in communication. And the make-ups afterward. It could include mementos from special nights out: tickets, coins, a leaf from a memorable walk, postcards or even drawings. The entire focus of the book should be about the two of you, together.

A few last thoughts:

Don't flaunt your wedding book (or relationship book) the same way you would a scrapbook. It should be treated as a diary. Privately. Not something to show friends or family, unless you both agree it's ok.

Don't use it merely as a vent to gripe or attack the other person- the main focus is on communication and expressing your feelings to your partner. Keep a balance of both positive and negative moments.

Try to keep it going. With all of the business in your daily lives right now, it's easy to forget or get lax on. In a few years, you'll be glad to be able to look back.

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